How to Get Android 8.0 Oreo Beta on Your Galaxy S8
If you bought a Pixel 2 or are using an older smartphone from Google , you already have Android 8.0 . But for everyone else, this update is still not available. Thankfully, it looks like Samsung is gearing up to test the latest Android on the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 Plus.
Here’s what you need to know to get your hands on the Samsung Android 8.0 beta as soon as possible.
How to Prepare for Samsung Android 8.0 Beta Testing
Samsung hasn’t officially confirmed when it plans to release the first beta, but we may already have the details. One Reddit user recently dug into the Samsung Plus app (which offers tips and access to special programs in the US) and came across several references to the so-called Oreo Beta Program.
According to the leak, Samsung will open its Android 8.0 beta for the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 Plus on November 2 at 11 a.m. (no time zone specified) when you can access it via the Samsung Plus app. In the US, the beta is available for T-Mobile, Sprint and unlocked phones, each with a total of 7,500 seats open.
In the leak, Samsung also notes that the beta program operates on a first come, first served basis, so you need to act quickly. Until then, make sure you have the Samsung Plus app ready to run on your phone.
What Android 8.0 brings to the Galaxy S8
The biggest reason to update your Samsung phone to the latest Android is probably the emoji. The new software not only includes many new emoji options, but also improves some of the older designs for the better.
The phone is much faster and smoother after the update, according to another Reddit user who claims to have early access to the beta on his Galaxy S8. Other new features in Android 8.0 include the ability to turn off notification icons and snooze notifications, as well as extend battery life. However, it is unclear if all of these improvements will be included in Samsung’s update version.
We’ll find out more soon. Until then, keep an eye on the Samsung Plus app if you want to test Android 8.0 on your Galaxy S8.
Updated 12:00 11/2/17: Samsung has confirmed plans to run the Android 8.0 beta test, which it calls the Samsung Experience 9.0, this morning. The beta program is currently available in the US for Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus owners on T-Mobile and Sprint, as well as unlocked phones. You can register now using the Samsung Plus app .